The ex-Macomb County deputy sheriff accused of stealing thousands of dollars from the charitable organization for which she served as treasurer was arraigned formally Monday on an embezzlement charge.

Bobbi Jo Craft was charged with embezzling more than $1,000, but less than $10,000 from the Romeo Lions Club. She surrendered voluntarily and appeared in New Baltimore’s 42-2 District Court to answer the charges.

Craft, 45, said little during her arraignment, other than to answer questions from Magistrate Joseph Cozzolino. She declined to comment following the brief hearing.

If convicted of the principle charge, Craft could face up to five years in prison and $10,000 or more in fines.

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Stephen Rabaut, the attorney for Craft, successfully argued to permit her to remain free on personal bond while her case winds through the legal system.

“She has no criminal record whatsoever,” Rabaut said.

Rabaut also said his client, despite knowing for many weeks she was under investigation, never indicated she would flee to avoid prosecution.

“She’s not a risk of flight whatsoever,” the attorney said.

Craft had served as treasurer of the Romeo Lions Club. In that capacity, she is accused of writing checks from Lions Club accounts for her personal use. When questioned by club officials about the financial irregularities, Craft sent via email a makeshift promissory note for the missing money along with her resignation as treasurer, authorities said.

A second person, Todd Walker, who worked as caretaker at the Lions Club facility, is also charged.

According to Macomb County Sheriff Department records, Craft went to work for the department in November 1989. She ascended to the rank of sergeant over a career that spanned more than 22 years. In the midst of the Lions Club embezzlement probe, Craft resigned, effective March 30.

Craft is scheduled to return to court Thursday. That hearing will be held in 42-1 District Court in Romeo.